Treatment of Pain Due to Winged Scapula with Spinal Cord Stimulation: A Case Report

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Winged scapula (WS) is a protrusion of the scapula giving the appearance of a wing and can be due to either a musculoskeletal or neurological insult. Pain associated with WS is multifactorial, including myofascial and neuronal mechanisms, and may be difficult to treat. CASE REPORT: In a case of WS refractory to conservative management with physical therapy and medications and not a candidate for nerve repair, we treated the pain with a spinal cord stimulator. We report significant pain reduction and improvement in function with the procedure. CONCLUSION: This case suggests a role for neuromodulation in WS and requires further investigation. KEY WORDS: Winged scapula, spinal accessory nerve injury, spinal cord stimulation, neuromodulation